VOI - Voice of Indonesia | RRI - Radio Republik Indonesia

President Joko Widodo appealed to ministries and related institutions to ensure sustainability and consistency in managing peat ecosystems to prevent land and forest fires.

"Peat ecosystem management is conducted consistently. I think the Ministry of Environment and Forestry (KLHK), Peat Restoration Agency (BRG), and Public Works and Housing Ministry (PUPR) continue to make efforts to maintain the groundwater levels, so that the peat lands remain wet," President Widodo stated during a limited meeting themed "Anticipating Forest and Land Fires" in Istana Merdeka, Jakarta, Tuesday.

The head of state also called to build canal blocks and hundreds of ponds on peatlands to keep the lands wet. The canals and reservoirs will also maintain water availability around peatlands in the event of a fire.

Furthermore, the construction of bore wells focuses on peatland wetting.

"We have applied other technologies for peatland wetting, but we have to remain consistent," he stated.

The head of state reminded that the dry season would hit most of the Indonesian regions in August 2020.

The president pointed out that 17 percent of Indonesia's territory had experienced drought in April 2020, while 38 percent of the other regions in May 2020, and 27 percent in June 2020.

"Drought will occur in most regions in August. We still have a short preparation time of a month from now," the president added. (ANTARA)